The advance of Russian forces on the Avdiivka direction is likely the most significant offensive operation for Russia since at least January 2023, as stated by British intelligence. It is noted that Russian troops are suffering significant losses in this area.
"Russia has most likely initiated a coordinated advance on multiple fronts in eastern Ukraine. Russian forces are advancing towards the city of Avdiivka, which is well-defended and has been on the front line since 2014. The city represents a major obstacle for Russian forces in achieving their broader goal, which is to gain control of the Donetsk region. The Russian attack is likely conducted by several armored battalions attempting to encircle the city," as mentioned in the report.
In intelligence reports, it is noted that Ukrainian fortified forces have likely been restraining the advance of Russian forces, with the latter suffering losses in terms of heavy equipment and personnel.
"The slow progress and high casualties have likely trigged a chance in messaging from Russia, from an offensive to "active defence" as successfuly clearing Avdiivka looks increasingly unlikely in the short term," as stated in the British intelligence report.
Russian forces intensified their activities near Avdiivka on October 10th. They attacked the positions of the Ukrainian Armed Forces and the city itself with a large number of tanks and other armored vehicles, supported by aviation and artillery. Analysts at the American Institute for the Study of War noted that the Russian army's objective was likely to draw Ukrainian forces towards the Avdiivka direction in order to halt their advance in southern Ukraine.
